Iceland goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson reveals the secret behind stopping Messi's goal

The Icelander said it was a dream come true to face the best player in the world'

Iceland goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson and Lionel Messi during the match/ Courtesy: IANS

Iceland’s goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson gained all the limelight after restricting Argentina captain Lionel Messi's penalty attempt in the second half at the FIFA World Cup Group D match on June 16. This massive save not only drew the match but also barred Argentina from taking the game home. After the finishing the game 1-1, Halldorsson revealed the reason behind his success. He said that he studied many of the Argentine superstar Lionel Messi's shots from the 12-yard mark and hence he could stop the five-time Ballon d'Or winner's second-half penalty attempt. He just tried to get inside Messi's head and correctly guessed that the FC Barcelona forward would aim his shot just inside the left upright, making the save by diving to his right. The Icelander said it was a dream come true to face the "best player in the world", adding his side had earned an important point in its first-ever World Cup match.